Theory question 104
Franchise, Elections and Electoral Systems(a) What is a simple majority system?
(b) Outline four demerits of the system.
Show the model answer
Model answer
(a) The simple majority (first-past-the-post) system is one in which the candidate with the highest number of votes wins, even if that is less than half of all votes cast.
(b) Any four:
1. Winner may be elected by a minority of voters.
2. Small parties are under-represented.
3. Seats won may not reflect share of votes.
4. Many votes are wasted.
5. Encourages ethnic/regional voting and gerrymandering.
6. Can produce weak legitimacy for the winner.
Explanation
Contrast with absolute majority (more than 50%).